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Thai Salad with Peanut Sauce

Thai Salad with Peanut Sauce

Patricia Packard
This Thai Salad with Peanut Sauce is more than just a meal—it’s a burst of flavor, texture, and color in every bite.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 380 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Peanut Dressing:
  • ½ cup coconut milk
  • ¼ cup peanut butter smooth or crunchy
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 2 teaspoons maple syrup
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • For the Salad:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 14- ounce package extra firm tofu pressed and cubed
  • 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 2 green onions chopped
  • ¼ head red cabbage shredded
  • 4 carrots julienned or grated
  • 10 ounces baby spinach and spring mix Earthbound Farm Organic or similar
  • ¼ cup crushed peanuts
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Lime wedges for garnish

Instructions
 

Make the Peanut Dressing

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, maple syrup, and kosher salt until smooth.
  • Tip: If the dressing is too thick, add a splash of water or more coconut milk to thin it to your desired consistency.

Cook the Tofu

  • Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 10-12 minutes.
  • Tip: Pressing the tofu before cooking helps it crisp up beautifully and absorb flavors better.

Prepare the Vegetables

  • While the tofu is cooking, slice and chop all the vegetables as directed. Keep them colorful and fresh for the best texture and flavor.
  • Tip: Use a mandoline slicer for uniform cuts and to save time.

Assemble the Salad

  • In a large salad bowl, toss together the spinach and spring mix with the prepared vegetables. Add the cooked tofu on top.
  • Tip: Wait to dress the salad until just before serving to maintain crunch.

Add Dressing and Garnish

  • Drizzle the peanut dressing over the salad. Top with crushed peanuts, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges.
  • Tip: Serve the dressing on the side for guests to drizzle themselves—this keeps leftovers fresh longer.

Notes

Quick Buttermilk Substitute: For a tangy touch, mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice into ½ cup of any plant-based milk.
Add a Kick: Include a chopped Thai chili or a dash of sriracha to the dressing if you like heat.
Go Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter and omit peanuts if needed.
Common Mistake: Overdressing the salad can make it soggy. Add dressing gradually.